Mustard Free Apple & Onion Compote
Sweet, jammy, and deeply savory all at once, this compote is the kind of condiment that makes everything it touches taste more interesting. Slowly cooked onions develop golden, caramelized edges before the apples join in, and the whole thing comes together into a thick, spoonable mixture that's equal parts comfort and sophistication. A splash of apple cider vinegar and a drizzle of maple syrup keep the flavor balanced — bright enough to cut through rich meats, sweet enough to feel like a treat. Fresh thyme adds an herby, aromatic note that ties it all together without overpowering the fruit. For anyone navigating mustard-free cooking, condiments and chutneys are often a minefield — store-bought versions frequently sneak in mustard seed or mustard powder for depth and tang. This recipe gets all of that complexity from pantry staples and fresh produce, so there's nothing to second-guess on the label. It works beautifully alongside roasted pork, grilled chicken, or a simple cheese board, and it's just as good spooned over oatmeal or stirred into a grain bowl. Make a batch and keep it on hand — it disappears faster than you'd expect.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- 3 medium apples (about 1 ¼ lb), peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- 1
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until foamy. Add the onion and salt, stirring to coat, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent with golden edges, about 10–12 minutes.
- 2
Add the apple pieces, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, thyme sprigs, and water. Stir to combine, then cover and cook over medium-low heat, stirring every few minutes, until the apples are completely tender and beginning to break down, about 12–15 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!